I agree with the sentiment, but also try to look at it realistically. It is much easier to be a "functioning alcoholic" when you are well-employed, probably a white-collar/high-esteem position and have others around you to help you out. I'm definitely no martyr or hurting, but the "skid row" reference always gets to me.
IMO, a lot of that is a matter of environment and circumstances. We could ALL be there. We are no better. We are addicts.